Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Explores Klungkung on Untold Flavors of Bali Gastronomy Series

Sawah Terrace at Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve continues its Untold Flavors of Bali series, a journey through lesser-known village kitchens, unearthing heritage recipes passed down from generation to generation. From the western corner of Bali, Tabanan, to the east, Klungkung, guests can explore dishes that celebrate the distinct ingredients grown in diverse microclimates and landscapes, and dishes shaped by traditions and ceremonies.

From July to September, we present ceremonial, royal, and humble dishes from Klungkung Regency, Bali's largest and most powerful ancient kingdom, a region characterized by the coast, community fishing culture, palm sugar cultivation, and a history rooted in royalty.

The menu features Serombotan, a mixed vegetable dish that includes local spinach, long beans, bean sprouts, and bitter melon. The highlight of this dish is its spicy sauce, crafted from a blend of roasted and grated coconut, garlic, chili, shrimp paste, and Balinese palm sugar.

Next is the Opokan, a dish perfected over generations that honors the fishing traditions of Kusamba village, a village synonymous with Kusamba salt, known for its pure, mineral-rich qualities, which is still produced using traditional methods. Before the advent of modern refrigeration, locals preserved pelagic fish by salting and boiling them, a practice that laid the groundwork for this dish. The fish is marinated in a mix of red spice paste and yellow turmeric paste, then wrapped in banana leaves and grilled over an open flame. Guests can savor this local favorite in its most traditional form at Sawah Terrace.

For dessert, try Daluman Gula Dawan, which is inspired by a traditional Balinese herbal drink made from the leaves of the Cyclea barbata plant. The leaves are processed into jelly and then combined with coconut milk and sweet palm sugar syrup. Klungkung is renowned for its Dawan sugar, made from palm flower buds, and is found in a region abundant with coconut palms.

Stay tuned as we bring food from the lesser-known regions of Bali to Sawah Terrace in our Untold Flavors series.